Is it permissible to supplicate during calamities that have become a "norm," such as sieges and killings, or is such supplication impermissible, as some Salafi sheikhs claim? And is it valid not to raise one's hands when the Imam supplicates in these situations?

The Qunut supplication is prescribed as long as the calamity persists. Its duration is tied to the removal of the calamity. This is evidenced by the action of the Prophet (peace be upon him), who recited Qunut for fifteen days and then stopped when the calamity was removed. No scholar has ever stated that it becomes unprescribed if the calamity prolongs. And since the Ministry of Endowments has called upon imams to recite the Qunut supplication, obedience is necessary, in accordance with the verse: (O you who have believed, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you). Muslims should also increase in repentance and seeking forgiveness, for it is one of the means by which tribulations are lifted.